i cut down my stock shifter the other day but then had trouble getting into 1st & 2nd gear, had the dealer check it out, they found half of an orange plastic ring laying under the shifter boot. they were not sure what it was, they ordered a new sfifter to see how it is assembled. They tell me $90.00 for yhe shifter and $250.00 for labor of installing this. whats up can't i just install a new B&M for &140.00 on my own. the say it alot of work, thay have to go from the bottom and disconnect some linkage. pleases help im really confused what to do. and what is the plastic ring?

thanks

1998.5 silver frost svt
resonator removed,
Alpine 7875 h.u. (sweet),
4 Blaupunkt 4 way 6x8's
clear sidemarkers,